Tehran (TDI): At least 72 Pakistani students have safely returned to Pakistan as violent protests continue across Iran, according to Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran, Muhammad Mudassir Tipu.
The ambassador said, “Today, 72 students from the University of Hormozgan in Bandar Abbas have departed for Pakistan,” according to Geo News.
He added that the Pakistan Embassy in Tehran provided full assistance to the students and coordinated with Iranian border authorities to ensure a safe and smooth journey home.
The unrest in Iran began on December 28, initially triggered by rising prices, but quickly escalated into protests against the government that has been in power since 1979. Iranian authorities have accused the US and Israel of instigating the unrest. Iranian police chief Ahmad-Reza Radan stated that security forces are taking strict measures to deal with the “rioters.”
Ambassador Tipu further mentioned that Pakistani students at Zanjan University are expected to return to Pakistan soon.
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He urged all Pakistani citizens in Iran to follow the safety advisory issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and reminded students planning to leave the country to complete all necessary formalities before departure.
Due to disruptions in Wi-Fi and telephone networks, he advised Pakistanis in Iran to use the embassy’s landline numbers for contact. Those traveling by road were advised to reach border crossings at least four hours before closing and to ensure their passports are properly stamped.
On his X account, the ambassador emphasized, “All Pakistani nationals leaving Iran must have a valid visa or exit stamp (‘Kharooj’) on their passports.” He also stressed that students should obtain clearance certificates from their universities, warning that Iranian immigration may prevent travel if required procedures are incomplete.
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For safety reasons, Pakistani citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel to Iran until the situation stabilizes. Last week, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged nationals in Iran to exercise extreme caution, remain vigilant, limit non-essential movement, and stay in regular contact with Pakistani missions.
